Thyrotropin

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Thyrotropin (also known as thyroid-stimulating hormone or TSH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in controlling the production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland.

Function[edit | edit source]

Thyrotropin stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and release thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate the body's metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature.

Production[edit | edit source]

Thyrotropin is produced and released by the anterior pituitary gland. The production of TSH is regulated by the hypothalamus, which releases thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) in response to low levels of thyroid hormones in the blood.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormal levels of thyrotropin can indicate a disorder of the thyroid gland. High levels of TSH can indicate hypothyroidism, while low levels can indicate hyperthyroidism. Thyrotropin levels are often measured in blood tests to diagnose and monitor treatment of thyroid disorders.

See also[edit | edit source]




Thyrotropin Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD